What do you know about the various fluids in your car? Here’s some information from Interstate Automotive that can help.
Antifreeze or Coolant
Coolant has a double job. It also functions as antifreeze. Most coolant is neon green or yellow, but it can also be other colors, especially if it’s picked up rust from the radiator. Make it a habit of checking your car’s coolant levels to keep it topped up.
Brake Fluid
Your brakes need fluid in order to work. That fluid circulates from one master cylinder into the brake lines and out to each wheel. This fluid adds pressure to the brake lines, squeezing the brake pad into the rotor with more force than could be done alone with just mechanical forces.
Engine Oil
Your car has to have engine oil in order to keep the engine running. Engine oil cools, lubricates and cleans the engine, which is why it needs to be replaced so often. It breaks down over time and thickens up as it gets hot and dirty.
Fuel
Fuel is crucial because without it there’s no fire in the engine and the engine can’t run. Your fuel gets to the engine via the fuel lines and fuel injectors, which ensure that fuel is distributed in the right amount and at exactly the right time. Any problems along the way can cause problems with engine performance.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid does for the transmission what engine oil does for your car’s engine. Transmission fluid starts out clear and red, but gradually darkens and thickens over time. You don’t have to change the transmission fluid often, but if you don’t get it checked the transmission can start to have trouble.
Power Steering Fluid
Your car’s power steering system is a hydraulic system, just like the brakes are. The fluid that circulates through the steering system ensures that you’re not having to fight the car to steer it. If you lose power steering, it might be because of fluid issues.
Windshield Wiper Fluid
You might not think much about windshield wiper fluid until your windshield gets so dirty you can’t see out of it. That’s when you’ll find out you’re low on wiper fluid. Checking this one fluid periodically can help you to keep your windshield clean when you’re on the go.
All of these fluids need to be checked periodically and each one can also start to leak from the car. Contact Interstate Automotive in Eau Claire, WI today for help diagnosing fluid leaks or just making sure your car’s fluids are all in great shape.